A HERITAGE plaque to commemorate the first fire station in Rayleigh has been unveiled.

Built in 1932, the Old Fire Station housed the appliances and staff of the Rayleigh fire crew until the station moved to an adjacent site in 1973, before relocating to its current Rayleigh Weir home in 2009.

The plaque is the latest in an ongoing series by Rayleigh Town Council and was unveiled by council chaiman councillor Ian Ward.

Rayleigh resident and chairman of Rayleigh Through the Looking Glass, Mike Davies, advises the town council on suitable heritage sites.

He said: “It is fitting that this plaque has been erected in appreciation to all the firefighters who have helped us over the last 100 years.

“The volunteer fire service first served the people of the town in 1906, and many residents and businesses have benefited from their dedication, expertise and bravery ever since.”